Police in Rubirizi Hunt for Vandals Behind Power Line Theft

Story by Uziah Tusaasire

Police in Rubirizi District have launched a manhunt for unknown individuals responsible for vandalizing and stealing 120 meters of electrical wires from a three-phase power line.

According to a statement from police, the incident occurred during the night of January 16-17, 2025, in Katanda 1 Village, Katanda Sub County. The suspected criminals targeted the power line, causing significant damage and power disruptions in the area.

A joint team comprising police and the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) Katerera Branch visited the scene to assess the extent of the damage.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the perpetrators may have been trained electricians due to the technical nature of the theft.

Police have issued a strong warning, emphasizing that anyone found guilty of such offenses faces severe penalties, including imprisonment of up to 12 years or a fine of 1 billion shillings, as stipulated under the Electricity Amendment Act of 2022.

Residents are urged to report any suspicious activities related to power infrastructure to local authorities to help curb such crimes.

Written by Editor